As the movie, and indeed, the trilogy reveal, once one becomes aware of the illusory nature of this world, they then have access to the power mentally "hack" the matrix and manipulate the physical realm.
Like many creative works, The Matrix has been the subject of analysis for allegorical meaning. This has lead to interesting food for thought on many levels, particularly in the area of spirituality. Of course, like other creative works, we can only guess as to whether any of these interpretations were what the writers intended.
If the spiritual path of Buddhism is studied, I would suggest that there are some parallels to The Matrix, particularly in careful study of the published talks of the Dalai Lama. Now I'm not suggesting he speaks of a super CPU processing our awareness, however, he does teach that the concept of enlightenment requires one to recognize the illusory nature. Consider the following quote:
The real sky is (knowing) that samsara and nirvana are merely an illusory display.
— Mipham Rinpoche, Quintessential Instructions of Mind, p. 117
In the future, I'd like to return to using The Matrix as a pathway or as a metaphor for exploring Buddhism, but right now, let's consider it in relation to the Law of Attraction. The Law of Attraction, explained in the simplest of ways, states that positive thought and requesting the heart's desire will cause those things to manifest in your life. Although the idea dates back for centuries, the current articulation is popularly revealed in Rhonda Byrne’s The Secret. In this book, she gives the formula for attainment. She instruct the reader to ask for what he or she wants, believe it will be received, and indeed, act as if receipt is assured. I know this is a simplistic summary, I think it is accurate as to her teaching. Detractors point to the suffering in the world as evidence against the Law, which leads to what I feel are uncomfortable rebuttals (victims attract their misfortunes).
As in The Matrix, the Law of Attraction suggests that once we become aware of realities machinations, we can "hack" it for our own benefit. Dr. Wayne Dyer paints a picture even more vividly when he discusses his nine spiritual principals and the power of intention. His works asks us to take a perspective approach to understanding reality, and like Buddhist teacher, also asks us to understand or interconnectivity with the Universe. As we are all one, so are we able to manifest our intentions.
These teachings are exciting and I suggest those exploring the Law of Attraction research these teachers. If this enlightenment is attained, then we are all "Neos" with the power to construct our reality.
